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Social Ministry Day Three: Bucking the partisan tide

By JOHN L. ALLEN JR.
Washington, D.C.

Though Catholic activists may sometimes complain about “political homelessness” in America, referring to a sense that neither of the major parties fully embraces the church’s social teaching, some politicians come closer than others.

Tonight, some 700 social ministers who spent the afternoon knocking on doors on Capitol Hill heard from three legislators who, in different ways, represent intriguing blends of positions that defy the usual partisan stereotypes – and who say they do so drawing upon their Catholic faith.